Angle Control Films for Spatially Resolved Optical Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current optical systems lack efficient spatially resolved angular and wavelength analysis capabilities, particularly in near-field optical diagnostics, which are essential for medical and biometric applications, where precise measurement of light properties is required.
Innovation Solution
An optical system incorporating a structured lens layer with microlenses and a polymeric multilayer optical film, along with a light absorbing layer, enables spatially variant angle control and selective transmittance of light beams with different wavelengths, allowing for precise angular and wavelength analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional optical system is used, then the structure is simple, but it lacks spatially resolved angular and wavelength analysis capabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The optical system is segmented into multiple functional layers: a microlens array layer for angular control, a light absorbing layer with through openings for spatial resolution, and a multilayer optical film for wavelength selection. Each layer performs a specific function, collectively enabling spatially resolved angular and wavelength analysis while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces angular control as an additional dimension by incorporating a microlens array that directs light at different angles corresponding to different spatial positions. This adds angular resolution to the traditional wavelength analysis, transforming the system from one-dimensional (wavelength only) to two-dimensional (angular and wavelength) analysis capability.
2Measurement precision
If a multilayer optical film with many microlayers is used to achieve wavelength selectivity, then the wavelength analysis capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves wavelength selectivity by precisely controlling the thickness parameters of multiple microlayers in the optical film. By varying the thickness of each microlayer (with each layer being less than 500 nm thick), the system creates constructive and destructive interference patterns that selectively transmit or block specific wavelengths, enabling high wavelength resolution through parameter optimization rather than complex structural design.
3Measurement precision
If the microlayers are made thinner to improve wavelength resolution, then the spectral analysis capability is enhanced, but the manufacturing difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin film technology to create microlayers with thickness less than 500 nm. These thin films are deposited using conventional thin film fabrication techniques, allowing precise thickness control while maintaining ease of manufacture. The flexible thin film structure enables high spectral resolution without requiring complex manufacturing processes, as thin film deposition is a well-established and scalable technology.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves enhanced transmittance ratios for specific wavelengths, enabling effective near-field optical analysis and improved diagnostic capabilities in medical and biometric applications, such as vein imaging and hyperspectral imaging.
Implementation Method 1
a lens layer having a structured first major surface having an array of at least first and second microlenses
Implementation Method 2
a polymeric multilayer optical film... having an optical transmittance T1 for the first wavelength and an optical transmittance T2 for the second wavelength, where T1>10T2
Data Source
AI summary
An optical system includes a lens layer having a first major surface including first and second microlenses and a first light absorbing layer. The light absorbing layer defines first and second through openings with a one-to-one correspondence between the first and second microlenses and respective first and second through openings. Each pair of first microlens and first through opening centered on a first optical axis makes a first angle with a normal to the first light absorbing layer. Each pair of second microlens and second through opening centered on a second optical axis makes a second angle, different than the first angle, with the normal to the first light absorbing layer. A light source emits light incident on the first major surface side. The emitted light includes first and second light beams carrying respective first and second information and propagating substantially parallel to the first and second optical axes, respectively.